There are times when typing at a flat angle is uncomfortable. It is most noticeable when using my Pavilion dm4. All of the keyboards I use, including the standard wireless keyboard, are angled for ease-of-use. For our ease BlueLounge released the Kickflip just a few weeks ago. All hopes were to increase productivity and ease everyone’s wrists. The Kickfip does exactly what is sounds, props your laptop with just a flip.
Forms and Function
If you are using a small footprint, then Kickflip might just be the thing you need to make a large difference in typing placement. Kickflip is 9”/23 cm and 11”/28 cm for 13” and 15” MacBooks, resoectively. The Kickflip was originally designed for a MacBook Pro, but wokrs just as well on a MacBook Air. The device clings tightly to the laptop using a German engineered gel adhesive.
The gel is a new direction for Bluelounge, which has used micro-suction padding in the past. Currently, I have no preference over one of the other. But, it is nice to see a company thinking ahead for its customers. Any semi-permanently installed accessory is best designed with a re-usable technology.
When the kickstand is flipped out, it does not add more than an inch raise on the laptop. Although it is still a very noticeable difference.
Conclusion
Usually, there is a review prepped for the day-of launch for Bluelounge products with a positive review ready to roll. However this one took extra time with this review to determine the true nature and usability of the product. The Kickflip is a solid product, fixing a common problem for all users in a simple way.
The dangling Kickflip arm is the most troubled issue for me. I really wish the hinge held the arm taught against the bottom of the Macbook Air.
As I mentioned, everything else is great! The device is well cut and molded. The Bluelounge logo is debussed on the stand in a non-distracting way. The angle is great for typing as well. The price is right on target at $17.95 for the 13” version and $19.95 for the 15” version.